Madagascar’s new military ruler, Col. Michael Randrianirina, has declared that he will assume the role of president following Tuesday’s ouster of Andry Rajoelina, marking a fresh chapter of political upheaval for the island nation. In an interview with The Associated Press, Randrianirina stated that the armed forces will oversee the country for a period of up to two years before organizing national elections.

Speaking from his unit’s barracks surrounded by senior officers, Randrianirina confirmed that preparations are underway for his formal swearing-in as head of state. “There must be an oath-taking to make it official,” he said, adding that the military intends to remain in control for at least 18 months and no longer than two years to, in his words, “restore stability and order.”

The takeover follows weeks of youth-driven demonstrations demanding political reform and the resignation of Rajoelina. Madagascar, a nation of about 30 million people famed for its rich biodiversity and vanilla exports, has long been prone to political turbulence since gaining independence from France in 1960. This latest coup underscores the enduring fragility of its democratic institutions.